The National Systematics Laboratory conducts research on the systematics of marine organisms of economic and ecological value to the US. Scientific studies conducted by NSL personnel contribute to the study of marine biodiversity by describing and naming new species, as well as revising existing descriptions, names, and evolutionary systematic relationships based on new information. This information provides a basis for the understanding of the diversity of marine communities and benefits the Nation by providing a basis for proper management of our Nation's living marine resources.

Interested in more detail about what systematics is and why it is important?

Our research produces two principal products: 1) worldwide and regional taxonomic monographs, which are scholarly documents that identify, describe, and catalogue the diversity of marine organisms with commercial or ecological importance; and 2) various aids to identification, including taxonomic keys and descriptions of new species and of the development of known species. These documents provide the information necessary for non-specialists to recognize and to identify marine organisms. The NSL is currently studying the taxonomy and diversity of fishes, crustaceans, cephalopods, cnidarians, and sponges. More detailed descriptions of the research being carried out by NSL systmatists can be found on individual staff pages.

We have a permanent staff of five systematists and one museum specialist. In addition, we sponsor visiting investigators and mentor post-doctoral fellows, graduate students, and student interns. Because the NSL is located in the National Museum of Natural History, we have access to some of the world's richest collections, libraries, equipment, and facilities designed specifically for taxonomic and systematic research. The opportunity to work with other taxonomic experts at the Smithsonian Institution enhances our capabilities to use the latest ideas and techniques in the field. As Smithsonian Research Associates, NSL scientists expand the scientific expertise of the Smithsonian Institution and help build and curate the national collections.